SparkFun Forums

[MandalfTheBeige]

This isn't a suggestion for a new product, so much as a new tutorial or guide.

There are plenty of products here that are designed to work both indoors and out. Examples include thermometers, humidity sensors, barometers, etc. What I would like to know is how to protect these sensors from the elements, and still allow them to function properly.

Also, it would be nice if the product page could include whether or not it the manufacturer rates it for indoor use only or indoor/outdoor. Of course this doesn't need to be on every product, but it would be nice for the sensors.

For your consideration.
Thanks!
Jacob

[SFE-Toni]

Hi Jacob,

Thanks for your input on this! A weatherproofing-specific tutorial or video on different ways to approach this issue would be a great idea, which I will bring up with the engineers.

Generally, you can find temperature ratings in the manufacturer data sheets for sensors. If there are additional specifics you need to keep in mind (for example, keeping the sensor in a low-humidity environment before baking it), this will also be listed in the datasheet. Otherwise, if it's not listed, you just have to use your best judgement (such as remembering electricity and water don't mix!), so you want to keep things protected enough in enclosures to avoid things like that. A great example of this to check out would be how insulated sensors/controllers are for high altitude balloon launches.

Keep the suggestions coming!